Interest high in Te Awa Lakes project

A public information session in November on the Te Awa Lakes development attracted more than 200 people as the company continues to go through planning processes for the project.

The Perry Group recently announced its billion-dollar five-year plan to create a residential and tourism gateway to the Waikato at the 62-hectare site in Horotiu.

Development director Lale Ieremia.

In September, the company submitted a Private Plan Change for the required rezoning to allow it to develop its former sand quarry. The rezoning request is now open for public comment before a final decision is made by Hamilton City Council.

The information afternoon took place at the Coffee Club at Te Rapa Service Centre.

“We’ve had a fantastic positive response from the wider community, neighbours and local businesses that are keen to be involved,” said development director Lale Ieremia.

He confirmed the company has also had two applications under the new Special Housing Area policy accepted by the council for public review. The applications cover one area within Te Awa Lakes designated for 1000 homes and another for 100 homes. Council will decide whether to refer these proposals to central Government for review following the three-week public submission period.

“We would love to get started as soon as possible, ideally within the upcoming earthworks season over summer, which is why we are running parallel consent processes,” explained Mr Ieremia.

“Our very clear vision is to create a mixed-use, integrated community. The residential component is a cornerstone of the plan, so we are hopeful that between the two processes we can find a way to get started,” he said.